Updated: 12 arrested after protest at crossing junction

TWELVE people have been arrested after a protest which blocked the roundabout on the M25 Junction 31 at Lakeside this morning (Monday, 13 September).

Essex Police were alerted after receiving calls shortly before 8.15am today reporting a number of people were blocking the road.

An initial statement from the force said: "Officers attended and worked to resolve the situation quickly and safely and this included shutting the road.

"Eleven people were subsequently arrested on suspicion of highways obstruction and they are currently in custody."

Chief Inspector Paul Austin said: "This incident caused significant disruption and our officers worked to resolve it as quickly and safely as possible.

"I want to thank the drivers affected for their patience and understanding."

The protest was one of a number around the M25 by climate activists.

Later police announced a twelfth person had been arrested.